Løftet

by Sue Moorcroft

Ava Bliss kæmper dagligt for at få enderne til at mødes i det daglige; hun har en drøm om at kunne leve af at skræddersy hatte, men der er desværre ikke mange, der vil have syet deres egen hat. Oveni alle de økonomiske bekymringer har hun sin ekskæreste at trækkes med – og værst af alt nærmer julen sig.

På en snedækket decemberaften møder Ava Sam Jermyn. Gnisterne flyver, og ikke nødvendigvis de gode. Sam hyrer Ava til at lave en hat til en helt speciel person, og dette sætter skub i hendes forretning, men også en masse andre begivenheder tager fart, da hun pludselig ser intime billeder af sig selv på internettet. Nogen vil hævne sig på hende og ramme hende personligt.

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Chick Lit, Fiction, Audiobook, Contemporary, Book Club

Published February 20, 2018

About the author

Sue Moorcroft is a Sunday Times bestselling author and has held the coveted #1 spot in the Amazon Kindle chart. She's won the Goldsboro Books Contemporary Romantic Novel Award, the Readers Best Romantic Read Award, two HOLT medallions and the Katie Fforde Bursary. She writes contemporary fiction of life and love.

She also writes short stories, serials, articles, columns, courses and writing 'how to'.

An army child, Sue was born in Germany then lived in Cyprus, Malta and the UK. She's worked in a bank, as a bookkeeper (probably a mistake), as a copytaker for Motor Cycle News and for a typesetter, but is pleased to have wriggled out of all 'proper jobs'.

Newsletter sign-up: https://signup.harpercollins.co.uk/jo...

Website: www.suemoorcroft.com
Twitter: @suemoorcroft
Facebook: SueMoorcroftAuthor
Instagram: suemoorcroftauthor

Reviews

[Tina (I can now make 20 comments! Better!) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great festive read with some modern day problems and challenges. I really enjoyed curling up to this book beside the twinkling of the lights of my Christmas tree! Sue Moorcroft is a very talented storyteller!!

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first audiobook for 2017 and I just didn't want to switch it off. A superbly crafted story complemented so well by Laura Kirman's use of different 'voices' for the characters and her expressive reading of the story bring it to life, make a fantastic listen.

The comparisons of how Ava is treated by her bullying, drunk and threatening ex-boyfriend contrasts dramatically with the usually more supportive reactions of Sam Jermyn, though he, too, has his moments! All the moments with Sam's Mum, as she endeavours to enjoy the festive break recovering from major surgery before starting chemotherapy are also very moving and memorable.

Laura Kirman, the narrator of the version I listened to, uses changes in pace, tone and voice to bring the book to life. I really didn't want to switch off the audiobook!

There are so many moving moments in this story . . . the surprise at the Rotary Club event where Sam's Mum is so brave . . . Sam's support as Ava contacts her Dad . . . . Ava's Dad coming to the rescue . . . . Sam's reaction to Ava's automatic suspicion . . . . and when Sam realises just how he reacted and endeavours to put things right again. Sorry, don't want to give any more details as I don't like giving spoilers!

A great story dealing with some modern day issues in a sensitive and supportive manner, highlighting the feelings and guilt of victims and giving positive feedback to help them. Who'd think such trauma as cyber bullying, terminal illness and revenge porn could be included in an amazing, heartwarming, festive story? Personally, I though it was brilliant - I'll certainly look out for more stories by this very talented author as well as more narrated by the highly entertaining Laura Kirman!

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on This Chick Reads

*ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review*


The Christmas Promise is the first book by Sue Moorcroft I've read but it definitely won't be my last one. Being a big fan of chick lit/women's fiction/contemporary romance I honestly have no idea why I waited so long to read some of her books. My blogger friends, whom I dearly love and trust with all my heart, have nothing but praise for her books and now I finally see why.

First off, don't be fooled by the title! It's a festive read alright, but don't expect the usual fluff. On the contrary, expect a book that will draw you deep inside, a story that will speak to your heart and make you ponder on many serious topics (such as trust, friendship, social media etc).

Ava Blissham is a milliner. I swear a had no bloody idea what a milliner does, but here I am now after reading this book feeling a true expert on hats and their making. She's trying hard to make ends meet, lives with her best friend for years, Izz and is as single as it can get. She's an only child and her parents were really career focused, so the only memories of Christmas she has involve those moments spent with her Gran. But with her gran being gone for some years, she really sees no reason to be in a jolly Christmas mood. Christmas is approaching, she's got some hats she can't sell no matter how much she tries and fears she'll be forced to contact her parents for help. Something she hasn't done for years. She tags along with Izz to a party with Izz's colleagues from work and suddenly 'miracles' start to happen. After a weird encounter with Izz's boos, Sam (or the Big Important Man, as she calls him) she realizes this Christmas might just be the best Christmas in her life. While faux dating Sam she notices real genuine feelings starting to develop, but the situation with Sam and his mother, Wendy doesn't let her get her hopes up. And there's Harvey, the irritating bastard of ex who does EVERYTHING to make her life miserable. Harvey has some pictures he took while he was dating Ava (involving some nudity) and he's willing to use them against her simply because she doesn't want to be with him.

Oh boy, there's just so much stuff going on in this book, which was surprising because the first 50 pages felt too slow for my liking. I started fearing I won't enjoy this book, couldn't really feel Ava or her relationship with the other characters. But I really didn't have to worry as after those 50-ish pages things start really happening. I was completely immersed in the story, biting my nails, hoping for the best outcome for Ava. She started growing on me, more and more with each new page. The romance with Sam was absolutely amazing, gradually built and so realistic. Sam is brilliant! I'm telling you, when shit hits the fan you want to have someone like Sam in your life. He is one of the most amazing, supportive male characters I've ever read about and I have nothing but respect for him. Yes, of course they have few rows with Ava along, but he has best intentions at heart. While I liked Ava, I was absolutely blown away by Sam and I do hope Sue will bring him back in some other book. Caring, strong, not to mention dishy, Sam is the man!

As I mentioned earlier, don't expect the usual festive fluff. The book raises some serious question regarding loyalty, importance of family, trust, revenge... I totally loved this! One sentence that I will ALWAYS come back to in hard times (which I wrote down with big black marker on my notebook) is SUCCESS IS THE BEST REVENGE! Ha! SO amazing and so deep. Love it! Write it down, stick it somewhere where you can see it daily and LIVE BY IT! Next time your demanding boss, kids or partner piss you off just remember Sue's words.

What did feel strange a bit was Ava's friendship with Izz, but I won't go into details as I fear I'll spoil the book for you. And believe me, that's the last thing I want to do. On the contrary I want to encourage you to pick up this book, despite not yet being Christmas or whatever. Not a fan of chick lit/contemporary romance? Fear not! This book's got a substance enough to keep your mind busy even DAYS after you've read it.

I really could go on and on about all the cool messages contained in this book. But as I took enough of your time already (thank you for reading my review, guys!) I'm gonna end it now. Just read the book! Don't hesitate, don't over think... just go to amazon and order a copy. The e-book was released just a few days ago and the paperback (which is so bloody gorgeous) is out on 1st December. Whatever the format, just read the book. Promise me that? It's a true gem!

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ava Bliss makes couture hats. Business has been slow and she's struggling to make ends meet. She is not looking for a relationship, as her previous boyfriend proved to be a nightmare. He is now threatening her, and Ava fears the consequences if he follows through. But when she meets Sam Jermyn, owner of a publicity firm, she's touched by his protective nature. Sam's mother, Wendy, is battling cancer, so he decides a one of a kind hat designed by Ava will make a special Christmas present for her. Sam is impressed by Ava's kindness towards his mother, but they are both leary to get too close. Can they let down their guard, learn to trust, and open their hearts to love?
While the book has all the elements of a sweet holiday romance, it does deal with some more serious issues.
3.5 stars.

[Agi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am telling it in secret, guys, "My Christmas promise" is only my second Sue Moorcroft's book! I myself can't believe it, too, especially when looking at her impressive backlist of novels. The other one that I've read is "Is This Love?" and I totally, like totally, adored it, and starting reading Sue's newest release I somehow had a feeling that it is a very special book and that I am for sure going to enjoy it. And? Did I?

Oh hell. I did! And how much!

This book took me totally by surprise with it perfectly mixing so many important issues in a very easy, not at all patronising way - it just somehow worked in this story, even if it had Christmas in the title. It doesn't concentrate on Christmas trees, all that glitz and glitter that we usually associate with this time of the year (not that it's wrong or something, oh heck, of course not, it belongs to Christmas!!!) - there is much more depth to the story and there were moments that it really surprised me with how heavy were the issues Sue Moorcroft is writing about. But it doesn't mean that the book is also heavy in reception - absolutely not, the author has managed not only to surprise us with the twists and turns, but also with the humour and how real and down - to - earth it sounded.

Ava's story was heart - breaking. She was this kind of character that you immediately fall for and I really couldn't watch how she struggles - she just didn't deserve it. There is this massive problem with her ex - boyfriend, than she's trying to make a go of her hat business (guys. I've no idea that making hats is such a complicated thing. Sue Moorcroft has really done her research on this subject and right now, after reading the book, I think you can ask me any question about being a milliner. ANY. Though I must admit that those detailed description were dragging on a little - but it may be my problem, as to be totally honest, I was never into making hats, but oh my, nobody's perfect :) ), and then there are those romantic problems - her best friend has a crush on a guy who has a crush on Ava, and there is also the background story about this guy and his mother. Wow, right?

I enjoyed the writing style, it was great and easy to follow, there were only too many moments for my liking that slowed the book down a little and I had a feeling that they pull me away from the main story, and with so many subplots in the book, with the story following so many leads, I think we should really concentrate on this what's important and significant. but this is my only "but" and I promise that in the end it turned out to be really a very insignificant problem of mine.

Those heavy issues that run in the book were important, and were written about with a lot of heart and feeling, and they were really brilliantly researched. I especially appreciated the subplot of Ava's boyfriend, as it is something new, I haven't read about it before in fiction, or if I did, it was not as explored as here. I think Sue Moorcroft has given hope here, with her words and her research, though she's also made it clear that it's not so easy to get right. So because of those issues, if you were expecting a very Christmassy book, please do not be surprised, as this story is much more than that.

The characters are very well drawn, full of depth and personalities, and sometimes those were only small details that made them so realistic and so true to life, with all their problems and small joys, and I really felt involved in their lives, especially Ava's - I just couldn't help but care for her and want only the best for her, then I wanted to behead Harvey and then I was taken by surprise by the events development. We have also a whole range of different relationships in this story, between mother and son, between friends, between work colleagues, mother and daughter etc, and they are all true to life, with all their ups and downs, with their misunderstandings and unconditional love, and I think that we all can relate to them, which made the reading only this bit interesting.

"The Christmas Promise" tugs at the right heart - strings but it also makes you smile and it is a perfect blend, no idea how Sue Moorcroft has done it, really, and it doesn't happen often that a story evokes so many emotions and in such a beautiful way shows that there is always hope - not in a wishy - washy way or something, oh no, but in a realistic, true to life way, and thanks to the strong characters makes it all even realistic. Hats off (PUN INTENDED) to Sue Moorcroft! This is also a book that makes you think about things that you've just read about, about those pretty heavy issues that Sue Moorcroft with such gentleness, but also honesty, writes about. She shows how easy it can be to fall in a trap and then how difficult it is to deal with the situation, to get away from this all. It is a story about friendship, love, hope, betrayal of the worse kind and forgiveness and help. I finished reading it with a smile and feeling warm and fuzzy inside. A great emotional rollercoaster of a read, "The Christmas Promise" is about changes and I think that everyone is going to find something to love in this story - highly recommended!

Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.

[Linda Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://lindasbookbag.com/2016/10/07/...
When her ex-boyfriend won’t take no for an answer, her finances are at rock bottom and her least favourite time of the year, Christmas, is looming, Ava thinks life can’t get much worse. She’s wrong.

I cannot believe that The Christmas Promise is my first Sue Moorcroft book. Am I mad? Chick-lit, women’s fiction, romance, call it what you will, The Christmas Promise is the perfect embodiment of fabulous story-telling and I utterly adored it.

Firstly, The Christmas Promise deals with topical and moving themes of finance, health and the abuse of social media so that there is a depth and quality to the writing I wasn’t expecting. I actually learnt a lot from reading this book. The quality of research that has gone in to the theme of millinery, for example, is so impressive and enhances the experience of reading, but it is the salutary lesson about the use of social media that really packs a punch. Those who read this book might just find themselves safer online – and know what to do if things go wrong.

The characterisation in The Christmas Promise is wonderful. I loved Ava and Sam especially, but even the smallest supporting character felt very real so that it was as if I was reading about people I knew. I even shed a tear over Wendy. If I said I wouldn’t mind meeting Sam in a darkened room you’ll know what I mean. The romantic passages were just lovely and very natural and sensual so that I could imagine myself as Ava.

The plotting is incredible. I felt as if I couldn’t bear what was happening to Ava and yet I was transfixed and couldn’t stop reading on. My heart went out to Ava, Wendy and even the awful Harvey in some ways because Sue Moorcroft has presented their lives and actions so convincingly. Just when I thought there was a resolution to their problems, off we went again so that The Christmas Promise was exciting as well as emotionally satisfying.

The Christmas Promise is a wonderful read, and not just at Christmas. I can’t recommend it highly enough.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ava Blissham is a couture milliner whose plans and career aren’t going to plan. House-sharing with her friend Izz in Camden, she’s invited to Izz’s works do where she meets Sam Jermyn (who runs the agency) and also bumps into her ex-boyfriend Harvey who has some explicit pictures of her on his phone. Making a connection with Sam, though curtailed both by Izz’s crush on him and Harveys actions, Ava agrees to a series of faux-dates with him after meeting his very ill mother who mistakenly thinks they’re in a relationship. As Christmas (a season Ava hates) gets closer and their meetings get more frequent, could the faux-dates be turning into something else? And then the photographs appear… I’ve been reading Sue Moorcroft’s novels since she began publishing and love the warmth and continuity of her Middledip books (though her last was set in Malta) and was unsure how setting this in trendy Camden would work but it does. The London scenes are well worked, the ‘twist’ with Harvey and Ava is well-thought out and brilliantly executed, driving the plot even when you don’t realise it and the Christmas atmosphere is nicely sketched. As with all of Sue’s books, the characterisation is superb, defined often with the lightest of brushstrokes but all of them come alive - we care for Ava and want the best for her, grind our teeth at Harvey and are surprised at further betrayals). So, a new direction but filled with solid writing, expert characterisation, some nicely raunchy scenes and a great sense of pace, this is another winner from Sue. Very highly recommended.

[Claire Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book by Sue Moorcroft is as comfortable as slipping into your favourite slippers. I love her romance stories and have been a fan for a while. The Christmas Promise did not disappoint. Great festive read that I highly recommend

[shannon✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I totally loved reading this book! It was such a cute story and when something happened with the pictures and something between Ava and Sam, I could not stop reading. Ava was such a lovely character and I fell in love with Sam! Thereby, I really loved the Christmassy atmosphere this book has, so five stars :)

[Stephanie Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story, set over the Christmas period, which explores the complexities of relationships with close friends and family members, taking the reader out of their comfort zone in some cases before revealing how each connection can be strengthened by successfully overcoming the challenges faced.
Sue has created very realistic characters and the reader is immediately drawn into their world, imagining how they would behave in similar circumstances. The Christmas setting provides a little urgency to the story, resulting in the need to turn pages more and more quickly, but it also gives a heart-warming boost to the romantic undertones which creates a satisfying festive read.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always enjoyed Sue Moorcroft’s books and was very much looking forward to reading her latest, The Christmas Promise. Millinery is not a subject you often find in a novel but in this story, Sue Moorcroft has woven the art of making hats into an impressive and heartwarming story. Its not all fluff and lightness however and between the prettiest of covers, The Christmas Promise covers some not so nice issues, including serious illness and revenge porn. These subjects are dealt with sympathetically and helpfully, particularly with the revenge porn issue, where advice and suggestions are included within the story narrative.

From the outset Ava Blissham was an easy character to like. She is loyal to her friends, she hadn’t had the happiest of childhoods with distant and career focused parents, especially where Christmas was concerned and I really felt for her. Not only was she struggling to make enough money to live on from her Ava Bliss millinery business but she also has to cope with a *** of an ex-boyfriend. When she is introduced to Sam Jermyn, a media PR boss, there is obviously a spark between them however Ava has other priorities – and loyalties, and has no intention of taking things further.

Family is very important here and the relationships between parent and child – whether loving and close or distant and self sufficient are under the spotlight. Sam’s obvious devotion to his mother was so very touching and despite all that she was going through, Wendy was an extremely upbeat and resilient character. In fact all the characters are well drawn and realistic and you feel that you really get to know them – warts and all. I had my favourites – besides Ava (I share her fondness for Zinfandel Rose!) and Sam; Ava’s father Graeme was someone you want fighting your corner and WAG ‘Booby Ruby’ was a delight with more depth of character than was initially evident.

Readers of Sue’s earlier books may remember the setting of Middledip, which features in this story and although much of the tale takes place in London, we make a welcome return to this lovely village and to briefly meet up with one or two of its characters.

There is so much more to the art of hat making than I ever imagined and whilst the book is not in any way a tutorial it does give an interesting insight into how various styles are constructed, all interwoven into the story when Ava is asked to make a very special bespoke hat for a very special person.

This is a lovely book to curl up with and enjoy – not just at Christmas but at any time of the year. I loved this one and definitely recommend it.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is quite simply wonderful! Sue Moorcroft has the knack of being able to mix a perfect love story with some very serious issues, taking the reader on an emotional roller-coaster ride that has you gripped from start to finish. The story almost had me in tears – both sad and happy ones – and I stayed up very late to finish it as I just couldn’t put it down. The hero and heroine are both so well portrayed, as is the cast of secondary characters. They are all refusing to leave my head – definitely a sign of a brilliant book! Can’t wait for the next one!

[Nicola Clough · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great Christmas read and full of romance and friendship and perfect to curl up to and have a festive read.
Ava is going to have a Christmas to remember. Sam steps in to the life of a bespoke hate maker Ava. Sparks fly and not always for the right reason. She's struggling to make ends meet and her ex is a bully and it's so close to Christmas does she want to face this. So Sam commissions her to make a hat for someone special she makes a promise that will change her life.
Great Christmas read.

[Kaisha (The Writing Garnet) · Rating 5 out of 5]

All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com

Absolutely thrilled to be today’s stop on Sue Moorcroft’s blog tour for #MyPromise!!
‘The Christmas Promise’ is definitely a book that shouldn’t be judged by its cover this Christmas. Whilst the cover is very beautiful, the storyline has incredible depth to it and it managed to change my original perception of the book as a whole. Why? Because I did what I’ve just said that shouldn’t be done; I judged the book by its cover. I thought it was going to be a twinkly, dancing in the snow type of read. But, even though it has the Christmas magic element perfected, Sue’s story tells a shockingly honest tale.

Ava’s working life hasn’t been going to plan if her dreams are anything to go by. Unfortunately she finds herself in the position of worrying about money and ensuring she can keep a roof over her head. That in itself is enough to stress anyone out. Ava’s bad luck doesn’t stop there though. Her ex-boyfriend thinks he is being big and clever, when in reality, he’s being a bully. An evil, repulsive bully that could cost Ava everything that she has worked hard for, and more. The bully’s actions are the basis of the shockingly honest tale. One that even made me stop and think, as well as being outraged at his actions, obviously.
I am sure that the tale will make a lot of people stop and think. Hats off to Sue for writing about a very important topic in a truly honest, yet sensitive way. Speaking of hats, oh my gosh!!! Finding out about how hats are made, was absolutely incredible! The way that Ava managed to create a ‘basic’ hat so simply blew my mind, and I wasn’t even there. Until now, hats had been off my radar and I thought of them to be just that, hats. However, after ‘watching’ Ava at work, I see hats in a completely different light. To be fair, it was all in Sue’s writing as the way she described all of the intricate details was outstanding. I hope that if I decide to get a hat made, that I can just take Sue’s description of one in the book with me and say ‘make that’!
For me, the storyline got better and better the more of it I read; characters became stronger and there was even more things popping up to keep me hooked. ‘The Christmas Promise’ is definitely a book that gets top marks for holding my attention, as just when I thought a situation was on the up, something else swooped in and made me think ‘where the hell did that come from?’. The whole book caught me by surprise on more than one occasion, even when I had, cough, something in my eye, cough.
I cannot fault ‘The Christmas Promise’ at all, even though it was a rollercoaster of emotion, it was a magnificent one. An enticing, shocking and loveable read that managed to keep my attention from chapter to chapter. A true Christmas work of art and hats off to Sue Moorcroft for writing her best book yet!
Thank you to the publishers for my copy of the book.

[Ann Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always look forward to Sue's new books and this one is a real winner! Her research is meticulous and I learned so much about millinery, file sharing and, Revenge Porn - together with the laws around it.

Ava is a struggling couture milliner and lives with her best friend Izz. Izz works for a high tech promotion firm, together with Tod, the other friend of the trio. Christmas is looming and office parties are in full swing. Ava doesn't do Christmas as her parents were dedicated professionals who always worked over Christmas and had taught her to be self sufficient.

This backfires on her when she becomes incapable of asking for, or accepting help in any shape or form. Sam comes into the picture, but Izz has a huge crush on him, so Ava tried to ignore her increasing feelings towards him.

This is a book chock full of relationships - mother/son, father/daughter, friends and boy/girl. It's about learning about other people and helping them - even when they don't think they want their help. It's about betrayal, real and perceived - and forgiveness. Ava's ex is the villain of the piece and how all her friends - and her father - come together to help her is wonderfully heart-warming.

It left a smile on my face and a love for all the characters (except one!)

The perfect Christmas book!

[Giuls · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ho comprato questo libro e, tempo un paio di giorni, ne ho sentito peste e corna. Il commento principale che ho sentito? Che faceva addormentare e che era noioso come pochi.
Per cui l’altra sera, quando ero stressata ed in ansia come pochi e avevo davvero bisogno di dormire, ho pensato che questa fosse la lettura ideale per addormentarmi dopo 5 pagine.
E invece no: l’ho finito in poco più di tre ore, andando avanti fino all’una.
Sicuramente questo è più dovuto al fatto che proprio non riuscivo ad addormentarmi piuttosto che alla storia in sè, perché, per quanto non possa definirla una lettura noiosa e soporifera, non posso che ammettere che in questo libro non succede davvero niente di niente.
La storia d’amore, che essendo un romanc dovrebbe essere al centro del romanzo, praticamente non c’è e si concentra tutta nell’epilogo. Per il resto abbiamo a che fare con Ava che tenta di vendere cappelli e si lamenta del fatto che le cose non vadano come vorrebbe, e con Sam che le piomba improvvisamente nella vita e le prova tutte per essere il suo eroe dall’armatura scintillante che cerca in qualsiasi modo di aiutarla a vendere.
La trama è quindi davvero piatta, ma mai come i protagonisti, che hanno lo spessore di un foglio di carta e la mentalità di un neonato. Ava passa il tempo a lamentarsi, eppure il lettore non riesce nemmeno a pensare “poverina, quanto mi dispiace per lei!”, mentre Sam sembra solo che lavori e si occupi della madre, non fa altro per tutta la durata del romanzo. Il problema è che questi due sono anche i personaggi più “elaborati” del romanzo, in quanto protagonisti, mentre per quel che riguarda i personaggi secondari sono ancora più carenti ed insopportabili di questi, dimenticabili dopo ogni volta che escono dalla scena.

Nel complesso, quindi, un libro che non mi è piaciuto, il cui unico pregio è il fatto che si legge velocemente. Sicuramente la magia del Natale è del tutto assente in questo romanzo.

[Joanna Donaldson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great Christmas read which I enjoyed reading curled up in front of the fire on Boxing Day. Love Sue Moorcroft’s books.

[Candice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based on the cover, this book was completely different from what I expected. Thoughtful and sensitive handling of some heavy issues here. I really enjoyed this one, even though it wasn’t an especially festive feeling book.

I also liked the inclusion of the creative aspect and learning about custom hat design.

[Bookread2day · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was one of the first to congratulate Sue Moorcroft being signed up by Harper Collins I am a great fan of Sue Mooorcroft. I read the paperback Is this Love when Sue Moorcroft was with Choc Lit. I am ever so pleased Sue is now signed with Harper Collins and I do wish her high flying sales. I was born 3 days before Christmas that is why I just reading Christmas fiction novels. And of course the best way to start off the Christmas novels is to read The Christmas Promise. I was lucky to receive a advance reading copy.

[Vi ~ Inkvotary · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 stars

A lot of heavy stuff in the story for a romantic christmas novel. No doubt, this was a nice read and at some point a bit touching.
But I have to admit, that there were some things in this novel, I had my problems with to connect them with a wintry or Christmassy novel.


Ava is disappointed. Her hats haven´t sold out at the market as she had hoped and now she is on her way to a Christmas party. She of all people who has nothing but bad feelings for this time of year, will give her best friend company at a party she knows nobody. But when she meets with Sam, and he asks her to create a hat for his sick mother, everything changes. Not only her business life, but her private life changes as well. Her ex-boyfriend turns out to be a bully and she has to learn that someone else wishes her bad things.


This novel is brought to the reader through the personal perspective of Ava and Sam. Both show what they think of things and how they feel about certain things. But if you are looking for some very romantic stuff you are wrong.

For my taste, the stalking ex-boyfriend and the cancer of Sam´s mother were a bit too dark for such a novel. Sure, I get it, that the author obviously needed something to give Sam a reason to act the way he does, but that could have been shown in a bit different, lighter way.

The language the author uses is clear, sometimes very blunt and mostly with a certain kind of sensitiveness. And sometimes a bit dry.


A bully, a very jealous friend, a very sick mother and some famous people give this novel a taste of how the world can be, when money doesn´t play a big role because you´ve got enough of it.

Ava is a charming young woman, who grew up with parents who don’t give a damn if it is Christmas or not. They just don´t see a point in celebrating it or to give their daughter a special time. And with the fact in mind that her beloved grandmother died on Christmas, she is done with those emotional days. She rather works during the holidays and earns herself some money. As a strong and independent woman she feels good about it and as long as her friends are with her, why not?


A nice to read novel, yes, but I didn´t get the wow factor. Don´t get me wrong, I hadn´t a bad time reading it. But I wasn´t thrilled either. There are other winter novels with Christmas in it that got me more.



Originally posted on Gone With The Books

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first thing you’ll notice about this book will be its totally gorgeous Christmassy cover – but it might just give you the wrong idea about what lies inside. Because you’ll be thinking Christmas, love, a bit soft and fluffy – right? Well no, not really – definitely not the fluffy!

This is a story that’s bang up-to-date and might not be quite what you’re expecting – the cut and thrust world of viral campaigns and marketing, and the dangers of instant sharing in the on-line world with a very realistic story line on cyber bullying and revenge porn. There are the difficulties and realities of running a small business too – making your way in the world as a milliner plainly isn’t easy – and serious illness also casts its shadow over the festive celebrations. There are some really dramatic moments too – just when you think everything is settling down and progressing nicely – that had me on the edge of my seat, frantically turning pages to see just what was going to happen next.

But somehow – and so very, very cleverly – it’s all worked into a simply gorgeous Christmas-focused story that warms your heart and leaves you with the broadest of smiles on your face. There’s a laugh on your lips at many points throughout the book too – some wonderful characters (I particularly adored footballer’s wife Ruby…), sparkling dialogue, and the perplexing world of faux dating.

The research that went into this book must have been tremendous. I really loved all the fine detail about Ava’s millinery – and learned a lot about the artistry, craft and immense care that goes into making a hat. And I suspect most of us know the dangers of intimate photos and the internet, but that whole thread is so well done – very real, and the intricacies just fascinating. But there’s also a strong and believable central romance – the perfect degree of will they/won’t they, fraught with misunderstanding and obstacles – that’s always there underlying everything else that’s going on. Achieving a balance that works so well is a real achievement, and the mark of a really superb story teller.

As the centre of the story, I loved Ava – gentle, loveable, loyal, honest, and someone for whom you really hope there will be a happy ending. As for her romantic interest – well, he’s just gorgeous. Sue Moorcroft is so very good at portraying relationships – friends and families – and creating characters that you take to your heart. And I maybe shouldn’t mention Middledip again – ok, I know I just have! – but there’s a real treat in here too for anyone who’s read the author’s earlier books, with a brief appearance for some characters that you’ll remember very well.

It’s been quite a long wait for a new book from Sue Moorcroft, and it’s just wonderful to have her back. I loved this book – and so will you…

[Claire (Jst1MoreChapter) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great Christmas themed contemporary, a nice mix of drama and fun with loveable characters, has a happily ever after which gave me all the feels

[Abbey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Today I’m part of the blog tour for Sue Moorcroft’s new festive read The Christmas Promise. I am always a big fan of Festive books and I was chuffed to bits to be asked by the lovely Helena from Avon Books to be part of the blog tour.

The Christmas Promise is the first book I have read by Sue Moorcroft and i thoroughly enjoyed it and will also be picking up more of Sue’s books in the future.
I couldn’t wait to start my first festive book of the year..so yes Sue you had the privilege.

So you want to know what The Christmas Promise is all about?

We meet Ava Bliss who is a bespoke hat maker and one snowy evening in December a dishy gentleman called Sam Jermyn steps into her life and sparks fly.
But Ava is having a tough time with struggling to make ends meet, her ex boyfriend who is bullying and blackmailing her but also because its nearly Christmas..Argh!
Dishy Sam commissions Ava to make a hat for a special someone in his life in which Ava makes a promise that will most definitely change her life..she just doesn’t know it yet…

I really enjoyed The Christmas Promise very much. It took a while to get to know which character was who but then I soon got settled in for a good read.

I really hated Ava’s ex boyfriend.. won’t go into too much detail as don’t want to spoil but with this story it rings true to what is happening in the real world with cyber-bulling and revenge porn. Some people are just damn right horrible!

I really loved reading about Ava, she seems like an amazingly talented lady who makes bespoke hats..which makes me want to go out and buy myself a fancy hat right now. Sue Moorcroft has certainly created such a fantastic character that all her readers will enjoy reading about.

The Christmas Promise will give you all the festive feels, tug at your heart strings but also make you smile hell of a lot! 4.5 star rating!!
Thank you to Helena @ Avon and Sue Moorcroft for letting me read and review this wonderful book.
The Christmas Promise is out now on e-book
Paperback 1st December.

[Claire Mc Partlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book, it drew you in from the first chapter and kept you wanting to read more to see what happened, I was up to the early hours reading which is always a sign of a really good book for me.

The story was set around Ava Bliss (love her name!), who is a struggling milliner, and her group of friends and set in December and the run up to Christmas. I loved all the characters, well apart from the really, really nasty ex who we were supposed to hate.

The love interest was Sam, whose Mum had just been treated for ovarian cancer and was waiting to start chemo in the New Year. Christmas obviously is supposed to be a time of celebrating and he was trying to make it the best Christmas ever for his Mum, Wendy, and his aunt Vanessa, who both came to stay with him for Christmas. His Mum was so lovely, trying to be so upbeat and happy knowing what she was going to go through in the New Year. Sam and Ava's friends overlapped, mainly through work, which was how they met.

There were quite a few real-life events going on, date rape, revenge porn (I'd never heard of this before this book!) and cancer, but it was all handled really well and you felt for the characters involved. Even though there were mini crises going on, especially with the revenge porn aspect, it wasn't at all as depressing as it sounds, but actually really uplifting. I also loved the fact that we weren't left wondering about what happened to Wendy as there was an 'authors notes' at the end tying up the loose ends. Absolutely perfect, great read!

[Sally Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ava hates Christmas and when the rounds of parties start she is dragged along by her flatmate and best friend Izz. At the first party she meets Izz's boss Sam and there is an instant attraction but the problem is Izz is completely besotted with him - how could she hurt her best friend like that. Then to make matters worse her ex boyfriend Harvey turns up, drunk again, and starts causing trouble - he has explicit photos of her on his phone and is threatening to send them viral if she doesn't get back with him!

Sam is immediately very protective towards her and also helps her out by bringing his mother and aunt along to her workshop to buy them expensive hats for Christmas but somehow Wendy, Sam's mother thinks they are an item and Sam lets her go along with it and needs Ava's help with some faux dates - can he get her to turn them into real dates!

Another lovely book by Sue Moorcroft - I love her style of writing and it is great that this book although set in Camden has a visit back to Middledip where other books are set - also great the way she explores the new law regarding posting photos etc on facebook or media sites - definitely worth reading

[Anne Harvey · Rating 4 out of 5]

We’ve had to wait a long time for the new Sue Moorcroft novel but I can honestly say it’s been worth the wait. I’m always a bit wary of novels with a Christmas theme, finding them a bit frothy, a bit-sugar coated. Don’t be fooled by the slushy title! Our heroine, bespoke milliner Ava Blissham, hates Christmas, is struggling to establish her business and is being pestered by her ex-boyfriend, Harvey. Reluctantly attending a works Christmas ‘do’ with best-friend Izzy, she meets Izzy’s boss, Sam Jermyn, who comes to her aid when a drunken Harvey tries to butt in. In return, to help Sam out with his mother, facing chemotherapy, Ava agrees to be his date over the Christmas period. What I like about Sue Moorcroft’s writing is that she introduces an issue which either the hero or heroine has to resolve, in this case it’s revenge porn. We are even treated to a return to Middledip, the Cambridgeshire village of several of Sue Moorcroft’s novel, and a brief appearance by Ratty, one of my favourite heroes.

[Chiara Ropolo · Rating 1 out of 5]

Questo libro è stata una delusione unica. Non mi è piaciuto niente: i personaggi sono insopportabili e superficiali, la storia non ha praticamente sostanza ed è prevedibilissima, lo stile dell'autrice è noioso all'inverosimile. L'ho finito (perché dovevo) come se fosse una medicina, a forza un pochino ogni giorno.
Ava è insopportabile, in ogni cosa. Si lagna in continuazione, ovviamente è bella brava buona e sfortunata, i suoi genitori hanno smesso di passargli la paghetta (quasi 30 anni) e lei recrimina sul fatto che sono stati poco presenti perché concentrati sul lavoro. Naturalmente la prima cosa importante per lei negli altri è l'aspetto fisico ma si inalbera quando notano i difetti suoi o della sua amica bruttina.
Sam è simpatico come un mal di pancia, pieno di sé e superficiale al massimo. Non sa cos'è l'onestà né la lealtà o l'amicizia e gode un sacco a fare il capo piacione.
Insieme però sono perfetti.
Il finale fa cadere le braccia. Insomma non mi è piaciuto proprio per niente

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ava is a struggling milliner living with her friend Izzy in Camden Town. Her uber-successful parents have retired and run a quaint bookshop in France. Her lack of money has made Ava very careful about accepting anything, even from friends, because she can't reciprocate. Izzy and their other friend Tod invite her to their work's Christmas drinks party at a local pub where she meets their boss Sam. Sam owns a PR and marketing agency called Jermyn's which looks after a number of sports stars and other celebrities.

Sam asks Ava to make a hat for his mother who has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and the two of them grow closer. But Ava's ex-boyfriend is not happy at being dumped and tries to blackmail her. Just as her professional life is looking up, could her personal life jeopardise everything?

Set in London (with a short trip to Middledip) at first I found it hard to get into a Sue Moorcroft book set in the city but soon I was totally engrossed in the Sam and Ava romance, enjoying the brushes with minor celebs and worrying about Sam's mum.

A great Christmas story

[Bogstoetten Elfie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeg har fundet en ny yndlingsforfatter, hvis hendes andre bøger er lige så gode som denne.

Jeg er helt vild med "Løftet" - den er sjov, rørende og helt fantastisk. Desuden foregår den i december (jeg er den største juletosse), den er fyldt med kærlighed ❤️❤️❤️, og der er ikke bare en men hele to brune labradorer heri.

De fleste kærlighedshistorier, jeg læser, er enten med unge hovedpersoner (YA) eller foregår helt eller delvist i fortiden. Den her er nutidig med aktuelle emner som fx hævnporno og sociale medier. Derudover er hovedpersonen en voksen kvinde på 30 år.

Jeg vil anbefale bogen til alle, der elsker en god roman med noget på hjerte. Det er en tyk bog, men man flyver igennem den. Bogen er velskrevet - og karaktererne er beskrevet så detaljerede og virker meget realistiske. Alle rigtige mennesker begår fejl og har nogle mindre tiltalende træk.

[Paige · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ava is a hat maker. She meets Sam and the both have an attraction to one another, but something keeps holding Ava back. As the story goes on you find out why. Ava has made some choices in her past relationship with Harvey that come back to haunt her. That being said, she's a likable character. She's strong yet weak when I think we all would be in her situation. Sam is supportive and masculine but at times I didn't care for his behavior. I suppose instead of him being a perfect prince charming he is flawed like everyone in some way. I like the little surprises in the book and the Ruby/Ava campaign at the end is so creative.

I was given a copy of this book from Netgalley for an honest review.